Description
These Pimento Cheese Crisps are a delightful twist on the classic Southern pimento cheese spread. Baked until golden and bubbly, these crispy cheese rounds offer a perfect blend of sharp cheddar, creamy textures, and a hint of spice, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Ingredients
Scale
Cheese Mixture
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (4 oz)
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened (4 oz)
- 1/2 cup diced pimentos, drained (2 oz)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (2 oz)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Cornmeal Base
- 1 cup cornmeal (4 oz)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and for easy cleanup.
- Mix the Cheese Spread: In a mixing bowl, combine the shredded sharp cheddar, softened cream cheese, diced and drained pimentos, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Form the Crisps: Using a teaspoon, drop heaping spoonfuls of the mixture onto the prepared baking sheet, spacing them apart to allow for spreading during baking.
- Flatten the Mixture: Gently press down each dollop with the back of the spoon or your fingers to create small, round discs for even baking.
- Add Cornmeal Topping: Sprinkle cornmeal evenly over the top of each cheese round to add a crispy texture and flavor base.
- Bake: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for about 10 minutes, or until the edges turn golden brown and the cheese is bubbly and melted.
- Cool: Remove the crisps from the oven and let them cool slightly on the baking sheet before handling.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature, served alone or with crackers and fresh vegetables for a more substantial snack option.
Notes
- You can adjust the cayenne pepper amount or omit it entirely depending on your spice preference.
- For a gluten-free version, ensure to use gluten-free cornmeal and mayonnaise.
- These crisps are best served fresh but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days; reheat gently before serving.
- Adding finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of smoked paprika can enhance the flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Snack, Appetizer
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Southern American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3 crisps (about 60g)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 6 g
- Cholesterol: 40 mg
Keywords: Pimento Cheese Crisps, Cheese Snack, Southern Appetizer, Baked Cheese, Pimento Cheese Recipe
